Article Updated – October 21, 2022
Disclaimer: If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. This article is reviewed by our experts and uses peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

What is one thing you dread the most with aging? If you answered hair loss, we’ve got the solution for you. Using a derma roller to help fight hair loss has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment!

Hair loss has a tendency of making individuals extremely conscious of their appearance. There are many reasons for hair loss and the market is flooded with products and treatments trying to solve it. Some of which include laser caps, DHT blocking shampoos, hair growth enhancement creams, topical treatments and more.

One of the most successful and most natural, hair loss treatment remedies is the derma roller. Proponents of using the derma roller for hair loss claim that the product further enhances certain hair loss treatments and creates results that could not be achieved without it. In this article we will tell you if that is in fact the case. So, let’s dive in!

 

Derma Roller For Hair Loss Review

derma roller for hair loss

What is a derma roller for hair loss?

The derma roller, also known as micro needling, is a plastic tool that makes tiny pricks in your skin with its micro-needles. The titanium needles in this device cut into your dermal layer of the skin, piercing it just deep enough to boost the circulation and create new production of cells, encouraging hair growth in the process.

The sizes of pins vary between 0.2 to 2 millimeters. The derma roller for hair loss treatment is very simple, making it a very convenient hair loss solution to use while in the comfort of your own home.

There’s also the option of visiting a clinic where a medical professional can do it for you. Not only can a derma roller induce the collagen production to cure hair loss, but studies have shown that it can also cure imperfections on your skin as well.

Derma Roller for Hair Loss and the Science Behind It

image of patient using dermaroller for hair growth

When you roll the derma roller through your scalp, it creates a large number of tiny punctures all over the surface. Experts believe that the body reacts to these tiny wounds by flooding the subjected area with wound-healing and inflammatory molecules. This reaction stimulates the scalp to help boost new hair growth. Using the derma roller for hair loss can be an easy, safe, and effective method to help stimulate scalp hair growth for both men and women.

Microneedling is beneficial for stimulating the skin cell proliferation. Researchers have found that while microneedles have a positive effect on proliferating the skin cells and benefiting scars, wounds, and hyperpigmentation, the most effective use of microneedling is hair growth stimulation to prevent hair loss.

Derma rollers are not known to cause any damage to your scalp, the needles only penetrate deep enough into the scalp to trigger the proliferation of skin cells and initiate the healing process.

According to researchers, this process of healing includes three stages:

  • Inflammation
  • Proliferation
  • Maturation (remodeling)

Derma Roller for Hair Loss: The Benefits

benefits of using derma roller for hair growth

1.) Derma rolling assists in the absorption of other hair growth treatment methods like low level light therapy (LLLT), topical dermal restorative creams and DHT-blocking shampoos.

  • In this 2018 study, they concluded that “The mean increase in hair count in the targeted area of one square inch at the end of the treatment was significantly greater for the combination treatment group (12.52/inch2) compared to that for the minoxidil alone group (1.89/inch2).” This is very exciting news to those looking to maximize the results of their chosen hair loss treatment method.

2.) Blood flow is increased in the scalp, allowing the essential oxygen and nutrients to travel to the hair follicles.

3.) Derma rollers jump-start the healing process helping to stimulate problematic areas.

How to Use a Derma Roller on Your Scalp

Pick the size of your needle

When researching micro-needling and hair loss, the web suggests a needle of 1.5 millimeters as the most common length for treating hair loss. This size coordinates with the depth of the penetration, as your hair follicles sit between 1 to 2 millimeters deep within your dermis. This is the exact depth of penetration that is required. Another option is using shorter needles, but they might not be as effective.

Establish a good wash routine and sterilize the derma roller

An exfoliating shampoo brush along with a thorough lathering and rinsing process will lift away all the dead skin and dirt present on the surface of one’s scalp. After washing, the derma roller including (the needles) need to be sanitized using rubbing alcohol.

Use a wide-tooth comb

Combing out all the tangles and knots is essential to allow the derma roller to cover all areas of the scalp when micro-needling.

Parting hair to allow unrestricted access

First, part your hair all the way to one side and roll. When this area is done, move to the next. Part your hair in sections to fully reach all areas of the scalp.

Use the derma roller horizontally

When micro-needling at home, work from side to side on each exposed portion of your scalp using a horizontal motion.

Maximize stimulation

Make sure you cover all areas of the scalp, go over each area several times before completing the treatment. Studies suggests ten rolls per one area. Using two different derma rollers to try and stimulate hair growth can also be effective. The difference in the rollers will be the size of the needles.

For example, as previously mentioned, the most common needle size to use in a derma roller for micro-needling purposes is 1.5 mm. However, evidence has shown that using rollers with different sized needles may help speed up the hair growth process.

Needles vary from 0.15 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.50 mm, 0.75 mm, 1.0 mm, and 1.5 mm. The derma rollers with smaller needles are known to help penetrate the scalp at the proper depth, whereas derma rollers with longer needles are designed to penetrate the scalp at a deeper level to boost cell production and prevent hair loss.

Hair growth serum

After you are done maximizing the stimulation on your scalp, you can add Kiierr’s Dermal Restorative Complex Cream. It is made with 100% all-natural and organic ingredients to help support a natural head of hair. A hair growth serum is typically oily and/or heavy. Kiierr’s cream is lightweight, moisturizing, and rapidly absorbent, allowing for all the ingredients to penetrate the scalp and create follicular health.

The cream will assist in the elimination of anti-hair growth issues, such as hair-follicle inflammatory and/or microbial infestation, while synergizing with the effectiveness of LLLT therapy laser caps.

How Often Should You Derma Roll?

This varies depending on the size of needle. It is recommended when using a smaller needle less than 0.5 mm, to complete the treatment every other day, depending on your pain tolerance.

When using a longer needle size of approximately 1.5 mm, complete the treatment about once every week. Depending on one’s tolerance the amount of treatments may change. With a lower pain tolerance try applying less pressure when rolling the derma roller over the scalp. It’s important not to cause unbearable pain throughout this process.

Side Effects

possible side effects of using a derma roller

The chances of side effects or damage using a derma roller to prevent hair loss are low. However, it is still possible for some people to experience the following side effects:

  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Redness

After a treatment, it’s common to experience inflammation and redness for a couple of days. Under certain conditions, scalps that are more sensitive may even experience scarring. The Institute of Dermatology states that most side effects subside within five days after treatment. One’s scalp may be extra sensitive to the sun after treatment. With a good sunscreen and taking the right precautions, there should be no problems.

Please consult a healthcare provider prior to using this treatment if you:

  • Suffer from a health condition that may obstruct healing: such as diabetes
  • Have a history of eczema or acne
  • Take blood thinners and other medications

Do Derma Rollers Work for Hair Loss?

does derma roller really work to combat hair loss?

The answer is YES! Derma rollers have been proven to be both a safe and effective solution for hair loss. This natural hair growth treatment has been known to produce hair growth results on the scalp when used consistently. Keep in mind, that your scalp might not react to the derma roller treatment the same way your neighbor’s does.

While this is a great solution to hair loss, make sure you find the right hair loss treatment that fits you, whether that be the derma roller, laser cap therapy, or vitamins and supplements.

How Long Does it Take to See Derma Roller Results? 

If you use the derma roller correctly and consistently, then it is possible to see derma roller results in as little as 8-10 weeks. This is considerably faster than certain other hair loss products, which can take 4-6 months, or even longer to show signs of progress. 

But just because results can start to be seen within 8-10 weeks doesn’t mean that you should stop using it then. For the best results, you should simply add the derma roller to your hair care routine and use it on an ongoing basis. Considering how easy it is to use, this should not be difficult for most people. 

Derma Roller Buying Guide 

When you are selecting a derma roller, you should take all of the following factors into consideration: 

  • Needle size – Derma rollers with longer needles don’t have to be used as frequently. However, they can cause more pain. Shorter needle sizes in the 0.225 mm – 1mm range cause less pain and many people believe they are more effective. But, derma rollers with shorter needles have to be used more frequently for the best results. 
  • Needle material – Titanium alloy is said to be one of the highest-quality materials for microneedles. So, you should prioritize derma rollers with this material.
  • Handle shape – Derma rollers with curved handles tend to be easier and more comfortable to use. Considering that you will have to use this product many times to get results, it is worthwhile to buy a derma roller with a comfortable curved handle shape. 

Derma Roller Improving Hair Growth – Clinical Studies & Scientific Evidence

Here we thought it would be helpful to provide our readers with a convenient list (not comprehensive) of derma roller hair-growth related clinical and scientific based studies.

Safety and Effectiveness of an Automated Microneedling Device in Improving the Signs of Aging Skin –  Click to view this study

Response to Microneedling Treatment in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia Who Failed to Respond to Conventional Therapy – Click to view this study

A study on the efficacy of microneedling with minoxidil solution versus microneedling with hair multivitamin solution for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia – Click to view this study

Microneedling in androgenetic alopecia; comparing two different depths of microneedles – Click to view this study

Androgenetic alopecia and microneedling: Every needling is not microneedling – Click to view this study

A randomized controlled, single-observer blinded study to determine the efficacy of topical minoxidil plus microneedling versus topical minoxidil alone in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia – Click to view this study

Kiierr Dermaroller MAX Growth Bundle

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Derma Roller For Hair Loss Conclusion 

Overall, laser hair growth caps outperform over the counter treatments by 2-3x in most cases, but it’s important to consider pairing other treatments such as the derma roller, with a laser cap or hair growth cream serum for the absolute best results. Several studies listed above support the effectiveness of using a derma roller for treating hair loss. So, give it a try!

Some people worry about the pain that these devices cause, but as long as you use the derma roller correctly, pain should be minimal. You can also get a derma roller with smaller needles if you are worried about any potential pain. 

Also, just make sure that if you do buy a derma roller and start doing microneedling for hair loss that you clean your derma roller properly every time you use it. Proper hygiene protocols are important for this hair loss treatment. 

Next Article: Do Laser Caps work for hair loss? Find out NOW!

Derma Roller for Hair Loss FAQs

Does derma roller work for hair loss?

Yes. Derma rollers have been known to increase hair growth on the scalps of men and women.

How often should you use a derma roller for hair loss?

Depending on the size of the needle you are using, most people should use a derma roller anywhere from once a week to once a month.

How do you use a derma roller for hair loss?

Make sure your scalp is clean and the derma roller is disinfected before beginning treatment. You will roll the derma roller across all areas of the scalp approximately 10 times.

Which derma roller size is best?

The suggested needle size in a derma roller is 1.5 mm. This is so that the needles can penetrate to the appropriate depth of the dermal skin layer to stimulate hair growth.

How long does it take to see results from derma rolling? 

Results can be seen in as little as 8-10 weeks. However, best results are seen with ongoing use. 

Is derma rolling painful? 

There can be small amounts of pain associated with derma rolling. However, the pain is very mild and the smaller the needle size, the less pain there is. Overall, the procedure does not cause significant pain for most people. 

Resources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6122507/

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/scars/treatment#treatment

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